The Institute of Nuclear Energy (INE) conducts multidisciplinary research to support the safe, responsible, and sustainable development of nuclear technology in Malaysia. Our research integrates engineering, science, policy, and public engagement to address the full ecosystem required for nuclear energy deployment, in close collaboration with TNB's PMO Nuclear.

Research core area include:

1. Nuclear Power Plant Siting Study and Infrastructure Assessment

   • INE conducts comprehensive nuclear power plant siting studies that incorporate geological, environmental, demographic, health, and safety considerations. These studies support evidence-based site selection, risk minimisation, and infrastructure readiness in accordance with international nuclear safety standards and best practices. The work contributes to national planning efforts for future nuclear deployment.

2. Nuclear Battery and Radioisotope Power Systems

   • INE explores nuclear battery concepts baed on radioisotope energy conersion technologies that provide long-life, low-power energy sources. Such systems are particularly relevant for remote sensing, space systems, medical devices, and specialised industrial equipment requiring reliable energy supply over extended periods without maintenance.

3.  Advanced Reactor and Core Design Analysis

   • INE performs research in reactor physics, core design, and neutronic–thermal analysis to evaluate reactor safety, performance optimisation, and fuel utilisation. This includes computational modelling and simulation to assess power distribution, reactivity behaviour, fuel cycles, and operational safety margins for both conventional reactors and emerging advanced reactor technologies.

4. Nuclear–Hydrogen Integrated Energy Systems

   • INE explores nuclear-hydrogen coupling, where nuclear energy is utilised for large-scale hydrogen production. This research supports the development of clean hydrogen as a future energy carrier for industry, transport, and grid balancing.

5. Radiation Monitoring and Comparative Energy Safety Studies

   • INE conducts radiation monitoring and dose assessment studies at coal-fired power plants (CFPP) and other industrial facilities to quantify natural and technologically enhanced radiation exposure. These studies provide important comparative safety data that support transparent communication on radiation risks and inform energy policy discussions.

6. Public Acceptance (AtomWise), Policy, and Nuclear Governance

   • INE studies the social, policy, and governance dimensions of nuclear energy deployment, including public perception, stakeholder engagement, and communication strategies. This research supports evidence-based policymaking and contributes to building informed public understanding of nuclear technology. 

7. Nuclear Standards, Regulatory Readiness, and Local Capability Development

   • INE contributes to the development of national nuclear standards, technical guidelines, and regulatory readiness frameworks in collaboration with relevant Malaysian institutions. The research supports localisation of nuclear knowledge and the development of technical competencies required for a future nuclear programme.

8. Thorium Fuel Cycle Exploration

   • INE explores thorium-based fuel cycle concepts as part of long-term research into alternative nuclear fuel options. Thorium offers potential advantages in resource sustainability and proliferation resistance, and INE studies its scientific, technological, and economic implications for future advanced reactor systems.

9. Nuclear Education and Workforce Development

   • INE supports nuclear workforce development through academic programmes at Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), including specialised courses, postgraduate research, and professional training in nuclear engineering and nuclear energy systems. These programmes aim to cultivate the next generation of nuclear professionals required to support Malaysia’s long-term nuclear aspirations.